Guwahati, Jan 10: Rescue operations are in full swing at the coal mine in 3 Kilo, Umrongso, where eight miners remain trapped following a tragic accident.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Friday that a joint rescue team comprising NDRF, SDRF, Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Assam Rifles is conducting extensive dewatering efforts.
“In three days, rescuers have managed to dewater seven meters inside the mine. However, 26 meters of water remain,” Sarma said.
A specialized dewatering pump is being brought from Nagpur to expedite the process.
“If this pump functions effectively, dewatering could be completed within 48 hours.
However, if it fails, the process will be significantly delayed due to interconnected wells compounding the challenge,” Sarma explained.
Sarma confirmed that the mine was abandoned over 12 years ago and had been legally operated by the Assam Mineral Development Corporation (AMDC). The miners’ recent entry into the mine was unauthorized and illegal.
“One miner’s body has been recovered, while eight others remain trapped. Police have arrested a suspect responsible for this illegal operation,” Sarma added.
When asked about CEM Debolal Gorlosa’s possible involvement, Sarma stated that police investigations are ongoing and that Gorlosa’s name has not surfaced in the inquiry. “We must view this as a human tragedy, not politicize the matter,” the Chief Minister urged.
The tragedy has drawn national attention, with authorities making concerted efforts to rescue the trapped miners and uncover the causes behind the illegal operation. Despite formidable challenges, the combined expertise of multiple rescue forces continues to offer hope for a breakthrough.
